Wrote an exegetical paper yesterday on Daniel 6, and was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Usually, I love the thinking, but hate the writing, as astute readers might have observed by now (perhaps this is a slog, not a blog).
Here's what I liked.
A conspiracy is hatched to take down one in whom no fault can be found. The only way to get him is by trapping him in his obedience to God. The secular ruler doesn't want to condemn him, but finds his hands tied. The pressure of the mob is too great. The order for execution is given, and the victim is left where his bones will rest, and a stone is placed over the entrance.
But against all hope, at dawn comes the discovery: he is not dead, but alive! Death could not take him because he was innocent...because he had trusted in his God.
Daniel, or Jesus?
"In every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. For he is the living God, and he endures forever; his kingdom will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end. He rescues and he saves..."
And so the good news went to all peoples, nations and tongues...and so it did.
I wonder whether Daniel sang Psalm 22 for the lions to pass the time?
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